Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Education and Training) Share this | Hansard source

Young people aged 17 to 24 participating in the Green Army Program enjoy the opportunity to participate and contribute to environmental projects they are often passionate about, and to get real work and training experience whilst doing so. They receive practical skills, training and contacts that can help them through the rest of their lives.

The feedback from many of them is extremely encouraging. James Cooper, from Kawana in Queensland, says: 'When I finish Green Army I hope to become a park ranger. I'm sure the Green Army would help get me there.' Kristal, from Boroondara in Victoria, says, 'Local to home, hands on experience, being outside, learning about all the different plant species.' She recognises the real benefit that it is delivering. Clare from Horsham in Victoria says, 'You get a lot of knowledge out of it, and I think it is a good starting point to start a career in conservation.' These are young people who recognise that this can give them a helping hand—to start in life, to contribute to the environment, as a career or throughout their lives, in any way possible. (Time expired)